Investing in a home sauna is one of the best decisions you can make for your physical and mental well-being. Whether you own a sleek indoor infrared sauna or a rustic outdoor barrel sauna, proper sauna maintenance helps protect your investment for years to come.
Because saunas operate in high heat and moisture, keeping them clean is essential for both hygiene and performance.
The good news? Cleaning a sauna is simple. Unlike hot tubs or pools, saunas do not require expensive chemicals or complicated maintenance routines. With a few easy habits, you can keep your sauna fresh, clean, and looking like new.
1. Preventive Care: The Golden Rules of Sauna Use
The easiest way to maintain a clean sauna is to prevent dirt and moisture buildup from the start.
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Always Use Towels: Never sit directly on the wood benches. Use a clean cotton towel to absorb sweat and body oils, and place another towel under your feet when possible.
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No Shoes Inside: Keep your sauna a strict no-shoes zone. Dirt and debris from footwear can stain and damage the wood over time.
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Ventilate After Every Session: Leave the sauna door or vents open after use to allow the wood to dry completely. In traditional saunas, running the heater for an extra 10 to 15 minutes helps remove remaining moisture.
2. Routine Sauna Cleaning
A quick cleaning every few weeks or after every 5 to 10 sessions is usually enough to keep your sauna in excellent condition.
Step 1: Clean the Floor
Sweep or vacuum the floor to remove dust, hair, and debris.
Step 2: Wipe Down Benches and Walls
Mix a small amount of mild dish soap or a non-toxic sauna cleaner with warm water. Use a soft cloth or sponge to gently wipe the benches, backrests, doors, and walls.
Important: Avoid bleach, ammonia, or harsh chemicals. Sauna wood can absorb chemical odors and release them when heated.
Step 3: Rinse with Clean Water
Use a clean damp cloth with fresh water to remove any remaining soap residue.
3. Removing Sauna Stains and Discoloration
Over time, minor stains or discoloration may appear on the wood. This is completely normal and easy to fix.
Light Sanding for Tough Spots
For stubborn stains or marks, allow the sauna to dry fully and lightly sand the affected area using fine-grit sandpaper (120 to 220 grit). Always sand in the direction of the wood grain.
Outdoor Sauna Exterior Care
The interior of a sauna should remain untreated, but outdoor sauna exteriors need protection from weather exposure.
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Apply a high-quality exterior wood stain or UV-protective sealant once a year.
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Choose a breathable product designed for cedar or pine wood.
4. Maintenance Tips by Sauna Type
Infrared Saunas
Infrared saunas stay relatively dry because they do not create steam. Focus mainly on wiping away sweat from benches and cleaning glass doors with a mixture of water and white vinegar.
If you own one of our Indoor Infrared Saunas, maintenance is especially quick and easy.
Traditional Electric & Wood-Fired Saunas
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Check the Sauna Stones: Inspect sauna rocks yearly for cracks or crumbling. Remove damaged stones and clean away excess dust for better heater performance.
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Empty Wooden Buckets: Never leave water sitting inside wooden sauna buckets between sessions, as it may warp the wood.
Enjoy a Clean and Relaxing Sauna for Years
With only a few minutes of regular care, your home sauna can remain clean, hygienic, and beautiful for decades.
Ready to upgrade your wellness space? Explore our premium Outdoor Saunas and Indoor Infrared Saunas at Infinity Saunas.
